Richard Pryor, comedian-actor-writer, died December 10, 2005, at 7:58pm, of a heart attack.
Pryor made his big screen debut as Diana Ross' piano man in 1972's Lady Sings the Blues. However, he is best known for his films Stir Crazy, Silver Streak, and Which Way Is Up? He also starred in movies like Brewster's Millions and The Toy — can any of us forget Richard Pryor calling a child "Master Bates"?
Along with his film career, Pryor had great success as a stand-up comedian. He inspired generations of up-and-coming comics — among them, Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, Bernie Mac, and Chris Rock.
His turbulent personal life often made headlines. There was the cocaine free-basing accident that burned over 50% of his body and left him near-death, alcohol addiction, a tax evasion conviction, the gun possession and assault with a vehicle incident, and six marriages.
Pryor made no secret of the darkness in his life. The fact that he was raised in a whorehouse was public knowledge. And, like all his other battles, his diagnosis of multiple sclerosis became just another facet of his persona.
Everything about Richard Pryor was played out for all to see. It was his inspiration, as well as inspiration for many others.
Richard Pryor is survived by his wife, children, and millions of fans around the world.
Comedy Central is airing I Ain't Dead Yet, Mother Fucker! tonight, as I'm sure they will for the next few nights.
Rest in peace, Richard. May the laughter never end.
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